Backstage With Gentry Thomas
Society & Culture
About
Go Backstage with Gentry Thomas as he interviews interesting people from celebrity musicians, athletes, and even movie stars. STEP BEHIND THE SCENES ON THE BACKSTAGE PODCAST - HOSTED BY GENTRY THOMAS. WHERE MUSIC LEGENDS, SPORTS ICONS AND MOVIE STARS GET REAL ABOUT THEIR FAILURES, HARD WORK AND RISE TO THE TOP. The Playground loves Gentry’s cool and laid-back interview style and thinks you will too.
Episodes
- Cedric the Entertainer on What Entertains the Entertainer
Cedric the Entertainer talks with Gentry Thomas about his new Netflix animated movie, Swapped. He discusses voice acting, his show The Neighborhood, and his work on Broadway. He also reflects on his career in stand-up, television, film, an…
- RZA on Wu-Tang’s Legacy, Tarantino, and the Mindset Behind It All
RZA speaks with Gentry Thomas about his new film, One Spoon of Chocolate, and his creative process. He also discusses Wu-Tang's legacy, his relationship with Quentin Tarantino, and the connection between music and film.
- Wes Scantlin Unfiltered: Music, Life, and the Road Back
Wes Scantlin of Puddle of Mudd joins Gentry Thomas to discuss the band's new album, Kiss the Machine, as well as his musical upbringing and life on the road. The conversation covers the band's upcoming tour dates and Scantlin's perspective…
- Andrew McCarthy: The Brat Pack, Weekend at Bernie’s, and the Truth About Friendship
Actor and author Andrew McCarthy joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his new book on male friendship, his experiences in 80s films like Pretty in Pink and Weekend at Bernie’s, and the legacy of the Brat Pack. They explore the evolution of frien…
- Marlon Wayans Talks Scary Movie 6, Family Comedy Royalty & Crossing Every Line
Marlon Wayans joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his Wild Child Tour, the development of Scary Movie 6, and his family's enduring influence on comedy. The conversation covers his stand-up career, his creative process, and reflections on his pe…
- Alfonso Ribeiro: The Show Must Go On — From Fresh Prince to AFV and Life After Loss
Alfonso Ribeiro joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his role as host of America’s Funniest Home Videos, his memories from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and reflect on the legacies of Bob Saget and James Avery. The conversation also explores Ribe…
- Matt Rife: The Self-Bet That Built an Empire on touring and paranormal
Comedian Matt Rife joins host Gentry Thomas to discuss his comedy career, his Stay Golden tour, and his professional growth. He also reflects on his friendship with comedian Ralphie May and his motivations for performing.
- Whitney Cummings: From Postpartum to Power Moves — Roseanne, Big Baby Tour & Bold Jokes
Comedian Whitney Cummings joins Gentry Thomas to discuss her Big Baby Tour, her experience with motherhood, and her perspectives on comedy and life. The conversation also covers her views on AI, the Epstein files, and her evolution as a pe…
- Bert Kreischer: No Shirt, No Filter, No Regrets
Comedian Bert Kreischer joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his Netflix series, Free Bert, his journey into stand-up comedy, his friendship with Rob Lowe, and his approach to storytelling.
- Jimmy Jam: The Prince Years, the Janet Era, and the Making of a Legacy
Legendary songwriter and producer Jimmy Jam joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his support for the 100 Billion Meals initiative and his iconic career in music. The conversation covers his work with Prince and the Jacksons, as well as his thoug…
- Marlo Thomas: Inside the Miracles of St. Jude
Marlo Thomas joins Gentry Thomas to discuss her advocacy for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the legacy of her father, Danny Thomas. The conversation also explores her career in entertainment and her lifelong commitment to servic…
- Shaun Cassidy: From Teen Idol to TV Legend — And the Stories He’s Never Told
Shaun Cassidy joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his career, family legacy in show business, and his "Road to Us" tour. He reflects on his early success, the pressures of fame, and shares memories from his time in the spotlight, including atte…
- Chris Matthews: Reveals Untold Stories from Washington’s Back Rooms
Political commentator Chris Matthews discusses his book Lessons from Bobby: Ten Reasons Robert F. Kennedy Still Matters and shares personal stories, including hitchhiking across Africa. He and host Gentry Thomas also analyze current geopol…
- Marlon Wayans: The Wild Child of Comedy on Family, Fame & Fearlessness
Marlon Wayans joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his Wild Child Tour, his career in film and comedy, and the influence of his family. The conversation also covers personal experiences with family struggles and a memorable onstage encounter wit…
- Abby Phillip: Jesse Jackson, Trump Parallels & the Fight for Black Political Power
CNN anchor Abby Phillip discusses her book, A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power, and examines the influence of Jesse Jackson’s political legacy. The conversation also explores her role in journalism and…
- Sydney Sweeney: The Fighter, The Star, The Talk of Hollywood
Actress Sydney Sweeney joins host Gentry Thomas to discuss her role as boxer Christy Martin in the biopic Christy. They explore her physical preparation, her background in kickboxing, and her career trajectory, including her work on Euphor…
- Jake Tapper on Race Against Terror: Secret Missions, Presidents, and the Fight for Truth
Journalist Jake Tapper joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his book, Race Against Terror, which outlines the hunt for an Al Qaeda terrorist. They also cover counter-terrorism strategies, his experience moderating presidential debates, and the r…
- Henry Winkler on his Happy Days, Robin Williams, Laughter & Starting Over
Henry Winkler discusses his children's book Detective Duck, his career including Happy Days, his friendship with Robin Williams, and his project Hazardous History with host Gentry Thomas.
- Kathie Lee Gifford remembers Regis, Reagan and how Trump saved her life
Kathie Lee Gifford discusses her song "I Knew It Would Be You," written for the film Reagan, with host Gentry Thomas. The episode also covers her career, her friendship with Regis Philbin, her faith, and personal experiences involving Dona…
- Sal Vulcano: From Terrified to Everything’s Fine
Comedian and Impractical Jokers star Sal Vulcano joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his comedy career, the success of Impractical Jokers, and his Everything's Fine standup tour. They also touch on his early career experiences and his growth as…
- Ron Howard: From Mayberry to the Movies — Untold Stories of a Hollywood Icon
Oscar-winning director Ron Howard joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his film Eden, which is based on true events. The conversation covers Howard's career, his experience directing movies, his interest in basketball, and his perspective on the…
- Spike Lee on Knicks Shake-Up, Biggest Career Risks, and Reuniting with Denzel
Director Spike Lee joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his new film, Highest 2 Lowest, his collaboration with Denzel Washington, and his career in filmmaking. The conversation also explores his perspective on New York City, the NBA, and the Kni…
- William Shatner Breaks the Internet Again: What He Really Thinks About Earth
Actor William Shatner joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his live tour featuring Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. The conversation covers his experiences as Captain Kirk, the legacy of the film, and his personal views on curiosity and flat Ear…
- Jerry Bruckheimer: F1, Pirates, and Hollywood’s Fastest Apple Movie
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer discusses his career and latest film, F1, which features Brad Pitt and was filmed during actual Formula 1 races. He also reflects on his work on iconic movies including Top Gun and Pirates of the Caribbean.
- Corey Feldman on Goonies 2, BB King and Cigs, and Life as One Big ‘Character
Actor and musician Corey Feldman joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his new single, 'Characters', his 50-year career, and stories about B.B. King. The conversation also explores his role in 'The Goonies' and updates regarding an anticipated se…
- Newt Gingrich from MAGA to Missiles sounds the alarm
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich discusses his book, Trump's Triumph, and provides his perspective on American politics, global conflicts, and national division. He shares insights on the past and future of the United States in th…
- Kevin Smith: 25 Years After Dogma
Filmmaker Kevin Smith joins Gentry Thomas to discuss the re-release of his 1999 film, Dogma. They cover the struggle to reclaim the rights to the movie, his career in indie filmmaking, and his growth as a storyteller.
- Vincent Martella: The Phineas Is Back Kicking Off 104 days of Summer
Actor and voice talent Vincent Martella discusses his role as Phineas Flynn in Phineas and Ferb, his broader acting career, and his experiences growing up in the industry on Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas.
- Christie Brinkley: The Untold Story of the Original Uptown Girl
Supermodel and actress Christie Brinkley joins Gentry Thomas to discuss her memoir, Uptown Girl. The conversation covers her career, her relationship with Billy Joel, her role in National Lampoon's Vacation, and her environmental advocacy.
- Finn Wolfhard & Billy Bryk BACKSTAGE from the Directors Chair
Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk join Backstage With Gentry Thomas to discuss their horror-comedy film, Hell of a Summer. They share insights into their creative partnership, the film’s retro influences, and Wolfhard’s work on Stranger Things.
- Jon Cryer uncovers history and Drag Queen night out with Charlie Sheen
Emmy-winning actor Jon Cryer discusses his true crime podcast, The Man Who Calculated Death, and shares a story about a night out at a drag show with former co-star Charlie Sheen. He also reflects on his time working on the sitcom Two and…
- David Blaine Says 'Do Not Attempt' Blaine Reveals the One Stunt That Nearly Killed Him
Illusionist and endurance artist David Blaine joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his six-part series, David Blaine: Do Not Attempt. Blaine reflects on the rigorous physical and mental preparation for his extreme stunts and his life as a father.
- George Wallace on Clean Slate, Comedy Legends, and the Wild Days of Morning Radio
Comedian George Wallace joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his new Amazon Prime series, Clean Slate. The conversation also covers Wallace's career, his memories of comedy icons like Robin Williams and Richard Pryor, and his long-time friendshi…
- Eric McCormack Drops Secrets on Will & Grace and His Thrilling New Role
Emmy-winning actor Eric McCormack joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his time on Will & Grace and his role in the new MGM+ mystery series, Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue.
- Lisa Simpson on her relationship with her Dad Homer; Yeadley Smith on her True Crime career
Yeardley Smith joins Backstage With Gentry Thomas to discuss voicing Lisa Simpson on The Simpsons, including Lisa's relationship with Homer. She also explores her work as co-host of the true-crime podcast Small Town Dicks.
- Newt Gingrich: The American Dream and the Immigrant Stories That Shaped Us
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich discusses his documentary, Journey to America, immigration, the California wildfires, and the prospective policy priorities of Donald Trump.
- Mark Harmon opens up: 17 years on NCIS, Ghosts of Panama and Summer School Days
Mark Harmon discusses his 17-year tenure on NCIS, memories from the film Summer School, and his new book, Ghosts of Panama, on this episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas.
- Billy Bob Thornton From Sling Blade to Land Man talks Life, Roles and Rock n Roll
Billy Bob Thornton discusses his career, his role in the TV series Landman, and his band, Boxmasters, on Backstage With Gentry Thomas. He also shares insights on filming iconic scenes and his personal experiences managing anxiety.
- Robin Thicke on his song writing and season Finale of The Masked Singer
Robin Thicke joins Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas to discuss the season 12 finale of The Masked Singer, his musical collaborations with Pharrell, and stories from his childhood growing up around Hollywood icons like Whitney Houston.
- David Alan Grier on Comedy, Broadway and life in the E.R.
Actor, comedian, and musician David Alan Grier discusses his role on St. Denis Medical, his time on In Living Color, and his passion for music in this interview with Gentry Thomas.
- Mario Lopez: From AC Slater to the King of Christmas
Mario Lopez joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his new holiday film, Once Upon a Christmas Wish, and his upcoming appearance at the Great American Family Christmas Festival. He shares insights into working on the movie with his family and what…
- Jeremy Piven on "The Performance": Chicago roots and tapping into his passion
Emmy-winning actor Jeremy Piven discusses his role in the film The Performance and reflects on his upbringing in Chicago and family background in theater. He also explores how his heritage and early experiences influenced his acting career.
- Lou Diamond Phillips: Young Gun's 3 is in the works
Lou Diamond Phillips joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his career, including his roles in La Bamba and Get Fast. He also provides an update on the development of Young Guns 3.
- Young MC Bust's some moves Backstage with Gentry Thomas
Hip-hop artist Young MC joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his career, the creative process behind his hit songs, and his early experiences in the music industry. They explore his impact on hip-hop culture and the challenges he faced as a pion…
- Henry Winkler on The Fonz and Beyond with Gentry Thomas
Actor and author Henry Winkler discusses his career, including his iconic role as The Fonz on Happy Days, his role in American Horror Story, and his writing career, which includes his memoir and children's book series.
- Damon Wayans reveals stories of growing up in the Wayans house and talks about getting Jim Carey cast on In Living Color
Damon Wayans discusses his career, including his time on In Living Color and his new CBS sitcom, Poppa's House. He also shares stories about his family and his role in helping cast Jim Carrey on In Living Color.
- John Salley talks Basketball and Bitcoin with Gentry Thomas
NBA champion John Salley discusses his basketball career and his involvement in the documentary film God Bless Bitcoin. He shares his thoughts on the impact of cryptocurrency and his activities since retiring from the NBA.
- Rob Schneider tells Gentry Thomas You Can Do It: Speak your mind America
Actor and comedian Rob Schneider joins Gentry Thomas to discuss his book, You Can Do It!: Speak Your Mind, America. They explore his views on the American political landscape, the importance of free speech, and the impact of political corr…
- Kat Timpf Unfiltered: Comedy, Politics, and Her New Book I Used to Like You Until...
Kat Timpf joins Gentry Thomas to discuss her book, I Used to Like You Until... (How Binary Thinking Divides Us), and her perspectives on comedy, politics, and societal division. They explore the impact of binary thinking and her experience…
- Jerry Ferrara: Behind the Scenes of Entourage, Power, and His Passion for Sports
Actor Jerry Ferrara discusses his roles on Entourage and Power, his passion for the New York Knicks, his weight loss journey, and his podcast, Throwback. He reflects on his career transitions and shares personal insights in this conversati…